Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, the Sultan of Sokoto and President of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), has confirmed the sighting of the moon marking the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan 1444AH.
The Sultan said the fasting would commence on Thursday, March 23, 2023.
The development was shared on Wednesday in a tweet by the National Moon Sighting Committee Nigeria, directing Muslims faithful across the country on the 2023 Ramadan.
“Today, 29th day of Sha’aban 144AH, which is equivalent to 22nd March, 2023 marks the end of the month of Sha’aban 144AH as the reports of moon sighting of the new moon were received from Muslim leaders and organizations across the length and breadth of our dear country…
“Consequently, tomorrow Thursday the 23rd day of March 2023 becomes the first day of Ramadan 1444 after Hijra. We, therefore, call on all Muslims to commence fasting accordingly.”
The Sultan also called on Muslims to pray for the successes of the newly elected leaders in steering the affairs of the country.
“As we just concluded the 2023 general elections and leaders emerged at the national and state levels by Allah’s will, we, therefore, call on all Muslims to use this holy month to usher prayers for their successes in steering the affairs of our great country.”
He enjoyed well-meaning individuals on support the vulnerable in society during the holy month.
“We appeal to the well-meaning individuals amongst us to assist the vulnerable and the poor people with food during this holy month of Ramadan to cushion the hardship people are going through. May Allah reward us for our Ibadah with Jannatul Firdaus, Ameen. Ramadan Kareem to all.”
